Reuben Dean is an active music educator and trombonist in the Houston area. He was born and raised in Denton, Texas, and attended the University of North Texas, where he got a degree in Music Education and studied trombone with Steve Menard.

During his time at UNT, Reuben had the chance to play in numerous ensembles and chamber groups. Such as the 6 and 5 o’clock lab band as lead trombone; Concert Band, and Green Brigade. Finally, for the last 2 years, he was the principal trombone for the Brass Band. Outside of school, he worked with the Salvation Army, both playing and conducting their brass bands and choirs. Along with his playing career, he also composes and arranges. His works have been performed by the UNT Consortium and Trombone choirs, the 6 o’clock Tuba and Euphonium Choir, Brassvenue C, and the Green Brigade.

"When asked why I want to be a teacher, the only answer I can give is, “Being a teacher is more than teaching academic standards… it is a way of teaching lifelong learning and growth in the individual.” In my education, I think back to those who have invested in me. They have inspired me to think, listen, and seek out knowledge that was not the academic standards for that class.

I was interested in being a pilot or doing a career in math - something I felt strongly about because that is what my parents do. However, in 2017, my decision drastically changed when my best friend and tuba-playing partner passed away unexpectedly during my sophomore year of high school. I was completely devastated and shut down during this time. I was making the Regional band, Area advancement, and in the top ensembles in the band with a promising future in the band program, but it all felt empty with my best friend missing. Without my band friends, family, and band directors, I would have never pulled through to make it to the end of the year, let alone high school. I then realized starting my junior year that achievements and flashy medals don't mean anything. What matters most is the people who stand beside you, the teachers who selflessly support and push you to do better every day, and the unity music brings to everyone regardless of circumstances. Even to this day, I understand the impact music has had and continues to have on me and others. This is the reason I want to become a music educator. It has become my family that relies on each other to grow, impact, and teach future generations continuously; it is so much more than just teaching academic standards.

I am now pleased to be serving as the Assistant Band Director at Manvel High School, where I get to work with some of the hardest-working, motivated, and inspiring students at the school. The support from all the fine arts department and co-workers put into reality the idea of community and belonging that each and every student needs to thrive and grow.